Black Mountain Salvation Army Family Store closes

Organization cites staffing shortages and operational expenses

The Valley Echo
November 11, 2022

The Salvation Army of Buncombe County has announced the permanent closure of its Family Store in Black Mountain. Photo by Fred McCormick

The Salvation Army has closed its Black Mountain Family Store, the nonprofit organization announced, Nov. 10.

Staffing shortages and high operational expenses were cited as primary factors in the decision, according to a press release regarding the decision to close the thrift store, which opened along U.S. 70 in 2019. 

“Closing the Black Mountain Family Store wasn’t an easy decision, but it is necessary, so we have the finances to maintain the critical services we provide to Buncombe County,” said Major Kenny Clewis of The Salvation Army of Buncombe County. “Revenue from The Salvation Army Family Stores provides resources to fund the programs for people in need, but to effectively serve our community we have to be able to pay the rent and hire workers.”

The store closure will not impact the Center of Hope emergency shelter, emergency financial assistance or food programs that the organization provides to the community, according to the release, which directs people in need of assistance or shelter to The Salvation Army of Buncombe County in Asheville. The Family Store on New Leicester Highway will also remain open. 

“We want to reassure our community that The Salvation Army is still here to help whenever and wherever we are needed,” Major Clewis said. “As resources – time, talent and treasure – become scarce, the difficult and necessary steps had to be taken to ensure a solid future for The Salvation Army in Buncombe County.”